This Air Fryer Patty Melt Grilled Cheese combines juicy, seasoned beef patties with layers of melty cheese and perfectly crisp, buttery bread — all made quickly and easily in the air fryer. Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with classic diner-style comfort.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~20 minutes
Ingredients List
Sandwich Base
8 slices sandwich bread (white, sourdough, or Texas toast)
1 lb ground beef
8 slices cheese (cheddar, American, Swiss, or a mix)
4 tbsp butter, softened
Seasoning
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
Caramelized onions
Mustard or burger sauce
Divide ground beef into 4 thin patties, roughly the size of the bread slices.
Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Place patties in the basket and air fry for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through.
Remove patties and set aside.
Butter one side of each bread slice.
Place bread butter-side down.
Layer:
1 slice cheese → cooked patty → second slice of cheese → top with bread (butter-side up).
Place assembled sandwiches into the air fryer basket (use parchment if needed).
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 4–6 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
Let sandwiches rest for 1–2 minutes.
Slice in half and enjoy hot and melty.
Additional Notes
Cheese Tip: American melts best, but mixing with cheddar or Swiss adds flavor depth.
Bread Tip: Texas toast gives extra crunch and structure.
Dietary Info
High-Protein
Comfort Food
Air Fryer Friendly
Flavor Tips & Variations
Classic Patty Melt: Add caramelized onions and Swiss cheese
Bacon Lover’s: Add crispy bacon slices
Spicy Version: Add pepper jack cheese or jalapeños
Low-Carb Option: Use keto bread or lettuce wraps
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use ground turkey or chicken
Butter: Use mayo for extra crisp bread
Cheese: Dairy-free slices work but melt differently
Serving Suggestions
Serve with fries, sweet potato wedges, or coleslaw
Pair with tomato soup or a simple side salad
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerator: Store cooked patties up to 3 days
Reheat: Air fry assembled sandwiches at 350°F for 3–4 minutes
Not freezer-friendly once assembled
FAQs
Can I cook everything at once?
Yes, if your air fryer basket is large enough — avoid overcrowding.
Do I need parchment paper?
Optional, but helpful to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
Can I use frozen patties?
Yes — air fry frozen patties first, then assemble.
Optional Personal Story
“This is my go-to comfort meal when I want something indulgent but fast. The air fryer makes it unbelievably crispy without the mess.”
